The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center welcomed the Harlem Heights community for its fourth annual Celebration of Giving Thanks on Saturday, November 22. The event brought neighbors together for a day filled with gratitude, fellowship, and support to kick off the holiday season.
A Meaningful Impact for Local Families
This year’s gathering provided 241 families, representing 1,036 individuals, with a Thanksgiving turkey and a Publix gift card to help prepare their holiday meal at home.
In addition, residents enjoyed a barbeque lunch prepared by Chef Jay Johnson of Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, family activities, and opportunities to celebrate The Heights Foundation’s 25th anniversary.
The Power of Community
“Each year, this event reminds us of the power of community,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder/President/CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “Neighbors gather to share a meal, volunteers give their time with joy, and our partners step up to make sure every family has what they need for a meaningful holiday.”
Volunteers Make It Possible
A total of 44 volunteers assisted with set-up, meal service, activities, and breakdown, ensuring the event ran smoothly and every family felt welcomed and supported. Volunteers came from FSW Collegiate High School’s National Honor Society, Scotlynn, Women with Spirit, Cypress Cove at HealthPark, Zion Lutheran Church, and Citygate Ministries, demonstrating the broad community commitment behind the event.
Thank You to Our Partners & Sponsors
The Crown Colony community served as a major supporter of this year’s outreach. Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands generously sponsored a portion of the turkeys, and additional financial contributors included Zion Lutheran Church, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Workscapes, Mercer Investment Properties, Cypress Cove at HealthPark, Rosemann Family Foundation, and Consulting M&A Business Development LLC.
Fun, Learning, and Community Services for All Ages
Residents enjoyed a variety of activities and services provided by local organizations, including free health screenings by Lee Health, ice cream cones from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office “What’s the Scoop” Ice Cream Response Team, financial advising and educational information from The Miliare Group, karate games and demonstrations led by Fort Myers National Karate, and children’s face painting provided by Silvia’s Faces-2 Face Painters.
A Tradition Rooted in Resilience
The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center extends its gratitude to the many donors, partners, community groups, organizations, and volunteers whose dedication made this celebration possible.
Launched in 2022 as families rebuilt their homes and kitchens following Hurricane Ian, the Celebration of Giving Thanks has become a cherished annual tradition, offering nourishment, connection, and hope to Harlem Heights families each holiday season.
Happy Thanksgiving!
From all of us at The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center, we wish you and your family a warm, joyful, and meaningful Thanksgiving. Thank you for being part of our mission and our community.
